Sustainable shallot production achievement through analyzing the land suitability and introducing the proper agronomic cultivation practices in samosir regency

Abstract

Abstract Samosir Regency is one of the highest regencies of shallot producers in North Sumatera Province. Approximately 255 ha of its harvested area produces 1,976.8 tons or contributes 12.1% for provincial level. The increase of consumption and industrial demand push the regency government to raise shallot production. On the other side, the two critical information about land suitability and the agronomic cultivation practices for shallot were limited. Thus, this study was arranged to enhance sustainable shallot production through analyzing the land suitability and introducing the proper agronomic cultivation practices. The field survey and soil analysis were conducted to support the Geographical Information System (GIS) and Evaluation System of Land Suitability tools. The results show that about 47,789 ha (38.65%) of Samosir Regency is suitable for shallot grouped in S3 level (Low Suitable); with some limiting factors such as nutrient retention and nutrient retention availability, and erosion hazard. While about 75,839 ha (61.35%) of the rest area was grouped in N level (Not Suitable) means grouped as an unproductive area for shallot growth with some limiting factors such as root crop and erosion hazard. Some strategic actions to improve land quality are giving organic and chemical fertilizer, applying agricultural lime to stabilize soil pH, increasing Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), and implementing conservation techniques on the steep area by building terrace. Also, information about the agronomic cultivation practices for shallot is explained to strengthen the strategy for sustainable shallot production achievement in Samosir Regency.